Getting Started
When I go for a run, the hardest part is getting started. Since I work from home, I am usually wearing pajamas or something casual – which means that if I go for a run, I have to get dressed, put on my running shoes, do my stretches, etc. There is a bit of preparation before I actually step out the door and onto the sidewalk. This preparation can be a daunting task at times.
Let’s face it. It’s a lot easier for me to sit here at my computer and continue to poke around the internet. It doesn’t force me to shift my focus, it doesn’t force me to take part in any physical activity, it doesn’t force me to change my current state. However, I know that if I sit here all day I am going to be angry with myself tomorrow, and I may very well begin a downward spiral where I never go running again. I have worked too hard and put in too much effort to let that happen.
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When I’m feeling unmotivated for my run, I take a minute and stop what I’m doing. I close all the windows on my computer, I fold my hands in my lap and I close my eyes. This forces me to stop and really think about what I want. If I am working at my computer, it is easy to just keep typing – but if I force myself to stop and re-focus, I always find what I need.
I will think about why I started running, what I want my body to look like, or about all the different adventures that I’ve had while running. I do this for a few minutes and then I am ready to go. I stand up and go put on my running shoes. Often I am not yet fully motivated, but once I put on my running shoes there is no turning back.
After I’m dressed and start doing my stretches, I am getting more in the zone. I drink my Whey Powder, and then I’m on my way out the door. At this point I am focused and as soon as I take that first step out the door, I don’t look back.
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September 20th, 2007 at 4:08 am
Hello Christopher
First, I want to thank you for the kind words. I’m getting inspired by new people visiting me. Men, especially. I left a comment back with a question there…
Was just browsing through your nice site. You know I truly like the idea of it and wish you all the best about blogging!
To the post itself. It was interesting to read it through. Know why? I somehow found myself in it. Sometimes, I feel like I can sit all day at my computer, surfing, posting, talking to people and, in that way, loosing the reality: the things I love to do, need to do, must to do, etc.
As to sports and men. Oh, it’s so important for a guy to be in a good shape. We women often pay attention on it. Of course, this is not the only thing we like about you, but we think that if a man is about sports, he’s likely to have a strong character and strength of will. Moreover, running guys have amazing legs and butt
So, every time you want to stay long at computer – remember: it’s not always good for you, your relationships and sexual health. Yeah.
*Hope to see you back on my page*
Nellie
September 20th, 2007 at 7:56 am
Nellie -
Thanks so much for the thoughtful reply. It certainly is easy to get lost in the computer, or to get lost in everyday life. You’ve got to make sure you get out and enjoy the world, and getting your first foot out the door is often the hardest part.
Thanks for stopping by and leaving a note. I’ll be checking back on your page soon.
- Chris
September 20th, 2007 at 11:13 am
I saw you visited my site – THX! I haven’t written anything about running yet, albeit I am a runner too. I really enjoyed reading this post, as I too deal with the same thoughts! I live in the desert and it is JUST now getting cool enough for me to hit the pavement. I have been running/working out inside and it’s just not the same. Regardless, I like your blog; you’ve inspired me!
September 20th, 2007 at 12:13 pm
I go running in the dead of winter here, but I don’t know if I would survive in the desert – the summer here gets hot enough for me.
Thanks for stopping by. I look forward to hearing from you in the future.
- Chris
September 20th, 2007 at 11:33 pm
Hi Chris,
I feel your pain about “getting started”!
I used to go to the gym right after work (when I had a 9-5 gig) and my dirty little secret was changing right out of my business suit into my gym clothes (opposed to my pjs) — but since you work at home I guess it may be a little different.
)
Keep up the good work on your blog!
September 24th, 2007 at 11:40 am
Gloria -
Working at home definitely has advantages and disadvantages, but it is something I continue to grow with. It’s a great idea to change right into your gym clothes after work – Cuts out any excuses. I’m sure there are similar examples in my life, but I can’t think of any at the moment…
Thanks for the comments and thanks for checking out the site!
- Chris
October 24th, 2007 at 10:35 pm
I’ve had to run in the military, and I still do it when I feel I’ve gotten too heavy. But let me tell you I need almost a week just to prep my mind to do it, and I have to take baby steps by walking for the first few days.
October 25th, 2007 at 7:19 am
Dave -
I know the feeling of needing to build up the motivation. Consider that if once you’ve gotten back to running, it’s easier to keep going. Keep the program going and you won’t have to go through the week of prep time.
Thanks for reading and for commenting!
-Chris